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The effects of cognitive-focused interventions on cognition and psychological well-being in persons with multiple sclerosis: A meta-analysis
Elizabeth S. Gromisch ORCID Icon, Joanna M. Fiszdon & Matthew M. Kurtz
Published online: 05 Jul 2018
Download citation https://doi.org/10.1080/09602011.2018.1491408
ABSTRACT
Cognitive impairment affects more than half of persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS), and it is associated with difficulties in multiple aspects of daily functioning. There is a growing body of literature that has explored the use of cognitive-focused interventions in PwMS, which aim to improve cognition-related function through drill and practice exercises, training in compensatory strategies, or a combination of the two.
The current study aimed to expand upon previously published meta-analyses in this area, exploring the effects of cognitive-focused interventions on objective and subjective functioning in PwMS, as well as determining demographic and treatment-related factors that may influence intervention efficacy. Thirty-three studies, with a total of 1890 participants, were included in the meta-analysis. Outcome measures were categorised based on the domain they presumably assessed.
For objective cognitive functioning, weighted effect-size analysis revealed small effects of cognitive-focused interventions on working memory (g = 0.31) and visual learning (g = 0.32). Small mean effect sizes were also noted on self-reported anxiety (g = −0.30) and depression (g = −0.23). Cognitive-focused interventions did not produce changes in subjective cognitive functioning. Moderating variables and clinical applications are also discussed.
Elizabeth S. Gromisch ORCID Icon, Joanna M. Fiszdon & Matthew M. Kurtz
Published online: 05 Jul 2018
Download citation https://doi.org/10.1080/09602011.2018.1491408
ABSTRACT
Cognitive impairment affects more than half of persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS), and it is associated with difficulties in multiple aspects of daily functioning. There is a growing body of literature that has explored the use of cognitive-focused interventions in PwMS, which aim to improve cognition-related function through drill and practice exercises, training in compensatory strategies, or a combination of the two.
The current study aimed to expand upon previously published meta-analyses in this area, exploring the effects of cognitive-focused interventions on objective and subjective functioning in PwMS, as well as determining demographic and treatment-related factors that may influence intervention efficacy. Thirty-three studies, with a total of 1890 participants, were included in the meta-analysis. Outcome measures were categorised based on the domain they presumably assessed.
For objective cognitive functioning, weighted effect-size analysis revealed small effects of cognitive-focused interventions on working memory (g = 0.31) and visual learning (g = 0.32). Small mean effect sizes were also noted on self-reported anxiety (g = −0.30) and depression (g = −0.23). Cognitive-focused interventions did not produce changes in subjective cognitive functioning. Moderating variables and clinical applications are also discussed.